Search this site. Looks like people have replaced the Exhaust and Intake Solenoids and that’s fixed it for them, but buy ACDelco parts. I’ve replaced these before on my son’s 2008 2.4l. They’re not expensive (~$35-$40 each). Knockoffs might give you trouble.
How’s your oil? Have you been changing it regularly (5,000 or less miles with synthetic) and keeping the level up? If so, then your Timing Chain is probably OK (unless you hear any unusual noises coming from the Front Cover area where the Serpentine Belt lives).
It’s probably just those Solenoids. And they’re easy to replace - just pop off that plastic engine cover and there they are dropped into the top ... at least on my son’s 2008, at least...
